Kitchen Countertop Options

Factors and Trends Influencing Kitchen Countertop Material Choice

Kingsland, United States - /Sterling Creek Builders/

The kitchen countertop is a crucial part of the kitchen. Essential functions of the kitchen are carried out on this surface. All kinds of meal prep are done on the kitchen countertop, and it facilitates the use of many appliances. A countertop also influences the appearance of the kitchen; it is a prominent feature.

A kitchen countertop is now a multipurpose surface. It is a desk for children doing homework or doubles as an office desk for a meeting. Choosing a countertop must be given importance as this choice affects the functionality and aesthetics of the kitchen. In this article, Sterling Creek Builders in  Kingsland, TX, shares information on countertops that will help those planning a new construction home or kitchen renovation. 

Key Factors To Consider In Countertop Selection

1. Color

Of late, many are choosing subtle patterns and movement over other options. This was followed by people who chose marble-look surfaces. Fewer people choose solid-color tops. A custom home builder can help homeowners choose a color for the kitchen countertop that suits the color palette that the client envisions for the kitchen. It would complement the color of the cabinets, backsplash, and appliances. 

2. Durability

Durability is a key quality that homeowners want in a countertop. This is vital because the countertop is a work surface where much of the work in a kitchen happens.

3. Sanitary benefits

An easy-to-clean surface is an obvious choice as the kitchen countertop is always in use, gets messy, and needs cleaning very often. There are countertop surfaces that are supposed to have anti microbial protection that is popular after the pandemic.

4. Affordability

Data says most homeowners do not see affordability as the major factor when choosing a  countertop in the kitchen. For a new home, the owner is willing to invest in a good quality countertop that lasts and looks good. 

Kitchen Countertop Trends For New Homes In 2022

1. Quartz

Quartz is a nonporous surface that makes it more hygienic and is resistant to staining. It is a very durable material and is long-lasting. This is what makes quartz a popular choice. It is now available in different colors and patterns.

2. Veining and Patterning

With current technology, countertops can be veined, instead of plain styles. Quartz can be made to look like granite, marble, or natural stone, by creating veins in interesting patterns swirled into the countertop slabs. Polished piece-honed and leathered finishes can be used in custom home kitchen countertops. 

3. Bold and Dramatic Styles

Bold colored countertops can create a statement look. They work not just in contemporary spaces but also in conventional kitchens. A black countertop of marble or granite can add gravitas to rustic wooden shelves or a colorful tile backsplash. Darker countertops make the colors of kitchen linen, kitchenware, or decor like a vase of flowers, pop out. 

4. Sustainable Choices

More and more people are looking for sustainable materials to use in a new construction home and reduce their carbon footprint. A countertop made of broken glass is an environment-friendly choice. This surface is a combination of recycled glass (75%) and white cement and contains no plastic resins or VOCs. Broken glass countertops come in neutrals and bold jewel tones, and will cater to a variety of tastes. As it is a durable and good-looking surface, this sustainable choice is a winner.

5. Concrete Choice

Beautiful concrete design quartz kitchen countertops are now available for new homes. They lend an urban aesthetic to the kitchen. They come in various colors, textures, and patterns and can look like art themselves. They are also durable and easy to clean.

Kitchen countertops are a big part of the kitchen, both aesthetically and functionally. They can make or break the kitchen. A home builder like Sterling Creek Builders, a residential construction expert in Kingsland, TX, will help clients with information on the best possible kitchen countertop options. The kitchen is the heart of the home, and Sterling Creek Builders understands the importance of each detail that goes into building a new home or a kitchen renovation. Their stellar residential construction services are available in the Texas Hill Country, and they can be reached by dialing the phone number (325) 603-2426.

Kitchen Countertop Options, Images, 07-08-22

 

Kitchen Design Mistakes

Mistakes To Avoid In Kitchen Design In New Construction Or Renovation

Kingsland, United States - /Sterling Creek Builders/

Homes are where families find happiness, comfort, and fun. The kitchen has always been the heart of the home. Families cook meals and spend time in the kitchen. After the pandemic, kitchens also became the place where Zoom meetings were attended or homework done. So, designing a kitchen that is functional, beautiful, and suitable to the lifestyle of a family is important.

It is better to put thought into the kitchen design to ensure that expensive remodeling can be limited and that working in the kitchen is made as enjoyable as possible. A home builder like Sterling Creek Builders in Kingsland, Texas, can help to design a kitchen that blends the family's character and relevant trends with functionality. 

Some mistakes to be aware of when designing a kitchen for a new home, or when renovating an existing kitchen.

1. Not Having A Kitchen Work Triangle

The stove, sink, and refrigerator are the three points in the work triangle. The space between these points must ideally be between four and nine feet. Installing the sink, stove, and refrigerator in this way makes the kitchen an efficient space that is easier to use. This kitchen work triangle must not be blocked by any appliances or cabinets.

2. Being Too Conscious of Trends

Normally, homeowners building a new home or remodeling a kitchen want to incorporate the latest trends. However, it is important to remember that trends are fleeting most of the time. Hence it is important to ensure that the trends chosen are functional and more reflective of the family's character, rather than just for the sake of being trendy. Especially for larger items like cabinets and countertops, a timeless and functional approach is better. Trends can be included in the backsplash, lighting, and other elements that are easier and more economical to change when remodeling. It is important to choose trends that work for each homeowner. For instance, while open shelves might be in, keeping them clean and tidy is more challenging. 

3. Insufficient Storage

Storage space is very important and it can never be too much. Everything that needs to be placed in the kitchen must be considered to ensure there is enough space. Large storage spaces for pots and pans and appliances and additional storage like pullout spice racks or under-counter storage must be planned. To ensure that deep cabinets are not underutilized, adding roll-out trays to the base of cabinets or installing a kidney-shaped pullout or Lazy Susan will help.

4. Lighting Failure

General, task, and accent lighting are needed in a kitchen. For overall illumination, general lighting like recessed lights can be installed. Having dimmers on overhead lighting will help create a softer ambiance when needed. Pendants for track lights in prep zones serve as task lighting. The island or countertop size must be considered to determine how many fixtures should provide task lighting. Accent lighting can be provided by under cabinet or in-cabinet lights. 

5. Forced Kitchen Islands

It is important to understand kitchen islands are not for every kitchen, especially the smaller ones. The kitchen island must not hinder free movement in the kitchen. Other options like a peninsula that allows seating, maximizes storage and allows flow. 

6. Improper Planning and Budgeting 

Whether designing a kitchen in a new construction home or remodeling a kitchen, a common mistake is failing to plan properly. When designing a kitchen, the vision must not be just about how the kitchen will look, but how the family's life will look like and how the kitchen design will work towards those requirements.

It is important to have a realistic budget. Research must be done before choosing accessories, cabinets, flooring, etc., to ensure the needs are met within the budget. Experts suggest having a 15 to 20% contingency amount, as usually the expenses are more than expected. 

Designing a new home or any home renovation can be exciting and draining at the same time. A custom home builder can help make the process easier. Sterling Creek Builders is a home builder that helps clients build new homes or renovate, like redoing the layout of a kitchen. They can be contacted for residential construction in Kingsland, Texas. Sterling Creek Builders can be reached by calling (325) 603-2426 or emailing them at john@sterlingcreekbuilders.com.